Online Reporter
Sipepisiwe Moyo,Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
A first-of-its-kind national hairstyling competition, themed Stylist of the Year, was held in Harare recently, attracting participants from the country’s 10 provinces. Bulawayo shone brightest, with Blown Away Beauty College clinching the national trophy.
Speaking after the win, the institution’s director, Tedious Moyo, said the victory was a significant milestone for the school.
“It’s not our first time winning competitions, but this is by far our biggest achievement. I’m very happy. This is a great lesson to our students and a huge form of encouragement,” he said.
Moyo said the competition was tough, and the win came against all odds.
“We faced many challenges and at some point, hope was slipping away. We didn’t even have a prepared model.
The student we ended up using had not been ready to take the stage, but she stepped up with confidence and represented us well,” he said.
The team showcased a creative colouring transformation using products in line with the Avante Garde theme, which demanded bold creativity and innovative use of colour.
“For the next year, the trophy will stay with us as national champions until others compete for it again,” said Moyo.
Upon their return, the school held celebrations in Bulawayo to mark the achievement and inspire other up-and-coming stylists. The event was graced by Umguza Ward 6 Councillor, Busisiwe Brown, who commended the academy for empowering young people, particularly from rural communities.
“The academy has recruited a number of youths in my ward who are now interested in hairdressing and makeup. This is a great initiative, especially for rural youth who often struggle to find direction after completing school,” she said.
Cllr Brown also encouraged male youths to take up hairdressing, urging them to dismiss stereotypes that the profession is only for women.
The beauty college has trained and empowered over 60 youths. Some of its graduates are now working abroad, while others have started their own hair and beauty businesses.
